Learn How to Become a Tree Surgeon -
The DTE Academy
If you love the idea of working outdoors and have a healthy respect for and interest in trees and other aspects of arboriculture, you may have a future as a tree surgeon. Don’t worry, it doesn’t require that you spend vast amounts of money on medical school, but there are certain qualifications you will have to satisfy before you can earn the title of tree surgeon and get to work.
What’s Needed to Become a Tree Surgeon
If you have ever wondered how to become a tree surgeon, the good news is that it’s a pretty straightforward process. There are specific skills you will need to acquire, but none of them are beyond the capabilities of most people.
At an absolute minimum, you will need to acquire NPTC certificates that state you are competent in:
CS30.1 and CS30.2 chainsaw operations - This indicates you have demonstrated knowledge of basic chainsaw maintenance, and that you have learned the basics of cross-cutting.
ACTR02 Units 01 and 02 - This certificate indicates you have demonstrated an aptitude for, and proper techniques related to, tree climbing, and that you have passed a course in aerial rescue techniques.
Note: Working at height is not for everyone. So if you are not comfortable working high above the ground, tree surgeon may not be the job for you.
How Our Courses Can Help
We offer a wide range of courses that can take you from a standard ground worker, to a qualified tree surgeon and aerial rescue expert.
By working with us, you will be able to open your horizons and go far in this industry. We’ll give you practical skills in chainsaw use, aerial rescue, tree felling and climbing – making you a valuable employee for any company and also a valuable colleague.
We’ll also teach you the ‘softer’ skills which, whilst often overlooked, are vitally important when it comes to working in this industry. By being better at working with people, you can open yourself up to more opportunities, more money and an all-round better career.
Tree Surgeon Careers – Is It Worth It?
So you’ve established HOW to become a tree surgeon, but now it’s a question of whether this is for you. Ultimately, are the financial rewards worth it? And is it a career that will leave you fulfilled?
Well, first and foremost, we’ll address the important question – money. Whilst tree surgeon salaries can differ greatly, depending on your job and work location, you can expect a base salary of £16,000 a year. And that’s with no qualifications or experience.
At the other end of the spectrum, qualified tree surgeons (who have taken our courses…) can earn up to around £45,000 a year. Yes, you will have to work hard for it, but the chance is there.
So, we’ve established it can be a good earner, but why else is it a career worth pursuing? Well, put simply, it is a job in which you will play a key role in protecting the local environment. The focus on our climate and ecosystem has never been greater, so this job has arguably never been more important.
As a tree surgeon, you'll be playing an important role in public safety, too. By taking care of overhanging trees and overgrown bushes, you'll be making roads and paths safer for all those who use them. Not just humans, but animals as well!
And last, but not least, you'll get to spend a lot of time in the great outdoors. Fresh air, great scenery and a cracking tan. What's not to love?
Other Qualifications
The above certificates are the starting point for any aspiring tree surgeon, but they are not the only qualifications that will help launch your career. You will also need to undergo so-called LOLER training. LOLER stands for Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations and these have to do with the safe operation of the type of powered lifting equipment often used instead of ladders. Some employers may also require you to prove a certain level of first aid proficiency.
Contact the DTE Academy
If you want to know how to become a tree surgeon but don’t know where to start, give us a call on 01959 524 623. We will be happy to answer your questions. If you prefer you can send us an email with your questions to: enquiries@dtetrees.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.